I am trying to get a feel for how much program reputation ultimately affects getting a job after residency/fellowship. Obviously, if one plans on going into academics it probably has a significant effect. I also realize that coming from a "top" program will make getting top fellowships easier, but it seems like residents coming out of many good but not top programs are getting great fellowships. So, if one decides on the private practice route, does program reputation have any bearing on how competitive you are in the job market?
I can tell you that I could have 50 jobs tomorrow if I wanted. Once you hit fourth year, you are called, e-mailed, and snail mailed on a daily basis. There are way more jobs out there than their are residents to fill. Orthopedics is a huge shortage area and is in the top 3 or 4 for searches every year.
I would say that in the private world, most of us just want to know that you went to a good program. Although, we do seek out candidates from programs that we are familiar with and have trained at. This way, you kinda of know what sort of product you are getting. In addition, at least in the MidWest, we try to focus our searches on docs from our area as they are more likely to stick around and become partner.
I believe that the program "name" probably helps you more in academics, mostly as a resume booster.
i would agree with what was said above. program name is helpful for academics. that being said, your fellowship name is probably even more important than you residency name when you are building up you academic CV.
i feel like a broken record, but i will say it again. you should go where you feel you fit. going for name without fit will make you miserable. most of the programs out there will train you to be a pretty good general orthopaedic surgeon, if you apply yourself a little. programs that have a "name" bring instant contacts. that being said, large fellow heavy programs tend to have a decreased operative experience in comparison to smaller community programs. smaller community programs may lack in the number "complex cases", but those cases are "adult swim" case anyway.
the choice is yours. i recommend you use your gut and go with wear you feel ar home.
